CBS Sports: Detroits Lions sign a four-time Pro Bowl player as Aidan Hutchinson’s new running mate.

According to CBS Sports, the Lions may sign four-time Pro Bowler Matt Judon to take Za’Darius Smith’s place as an edge rusher. This is why Detroit’s defense would benefit greatly from it.

Could Matt Judon join the Detroit Lions?
Going into 2025, the Detroit Lions are aiming for the Super Bowl, but they still have a noticeable need on their roster: an edge rusher.

As everyone is aware, Aidan Hutchinson is a superstar who is just becoming better. Za’Darius Smith, who started opposite Hutch last season, was released by the Lions in this summer in an unexpected move. Since then? It has been quiet. Too silent.

GM Brad Holmes addressed the pass rush in the draft by choosing Boise State’s Ahmed Hassanein in the sixth round, but it’s unrealistic to expect him to play right away. Particularly for a squad that wants to play well into January (and maybe February).

CBS Sports, however, could have just offered an intriguing—and workable—solution.

CBS Predicts: Matt Judon Joins the Lions
The four-time Pro Bowl player and former Patriot-turned-Falcon Matt Judon may join Detroit to take that open EDGE slot, according to a recent article by Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports.

In the first round of the draft, the Lions selected defensive lineman Tyleik Williams, but they still need a pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson. Judon may be a good fit in there.

Let’s face it, he’s not incorrect.

Even if Judon isn’t at his best anymore, he still has some life left in him. Despite being transferred from New England just before the 2024 season began, he recorded 5.5 sacks with the Falcons. It’s important to note that even though he had his fewest sacks in a complete season since his rookie campaign, the player continues to attract attention and provide seasoned leadership to a youthful defensive line unit.

Is Detroit a Fit for Judon?
Of course.

Consider this: High-motor, seasoned athletes with guts and leadership qualities are highly admired by Dan Campbell. Judon fulfills all of those requirements and more.

4x Pro Bowler 66.5 sacks in his career
Several seasons with more than 12 sacks (most recent in 2022)
Continued to be productive, disruptive, and a terror off the edge